So You Want to Eat at Texas Roadhouse, But Gluten Said, "Hold My Beer"?
Ah, Texas Roadhouse. Home of those addictive rolls and enough butter to churn your own dairy farm. But what if you're lookin' for a delicious dinner that doesn't involve a surprise gluten party in your tummy? Buckle up, buttercup, because navigating the gluten-free frontier at Texas Roadhouse can be a real yeehaw (or should we say, "yee-ouch"?)
The Official Line: More Like a Suggestion Box
Texas Roadhouse offers a gluten-friendly suggestions list [don't they mean "gluten-free" with a big ol' asterisk?], but here's the kicker: they're a scratch kitchen, which means there's always a chance of gluten hitchhikers sneaking onto your plate. Cross-contamination is a real thing, folks, like that time your weird uncle showed up at your gluten-free Thanksgiving with a loaf of rye bread.
Now, Let's Get Down to Grub: What CAN You Eat?
Alright, so the options might be a little "hold the bun, extra tears" compared to your gluten-lovin' neighbors, but there's still a chance to tame that Texas-sized hunger. Here's what you can munch on:
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The Meaty Marvels: Most of their hand-cut steaks are good to go, just hold the prime rib (that marinade's got more gluten than a college essay). Grilled chicken, BBQ chicken, herb-crusted chicken, bone-in pork chops (skip the peppercorn sauce, though), and even ribs are fair game. Basically, if it moos, clucks, oinks, or used to wear ribs, you're probably in the clear.
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Sides: Not as Exciting as the Rolls, But They'll Do: Fresh veggies, house salad with oil and vinegar (no croutons, you rebel!), baked potato, sweet potato, green beans, corn, applesauce, mashed potatoes (hold the gravy!), sautéed mushrooms, and jack cheese are your gluten-free sidekicks.
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The Rest is Up to Your Creativity (and the Server's Patience): This is where things get interesting. Burgers can be enjoyed "bunless wonders" with a side salad (because fries are a no-go). Pulled pork is an option, but ditch the bread and fashion a lettuce wrap worthy of a food blog.
Remember the Magic Words: "Hey, I Have a Gluten Allergy!"
Here's the thing: Texas Roadhouse isn't exactly known for being a gluten-free haven. But letting your server know you have a gluten allergy (even if it's an intolerance) can make a world of difference. They might be able to accommodate your needs by using a fresh grill surface for your food or being extra careful about cross-contamination.
The Bottom Line: It Ain't Easy Being Gluten-Free at Texas Roadhouse
Listen, you might not be able to recreate that roll-drowning-in-butter experience, but you can still have a decent meal at Texas Roadhouse. Just be prepared to get creative and communicate your needs clearly. And hey, maybe this is your chance to finally try that salad everyone's been raving about (or maybe not).
